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FAQs for Avoriaz

Discover the top Avoriaz

About FAQ's - Resort Information for Avoriaz

Here is collection of general resort knowledge compiled from years of responding to email enquiries, getting ourselves lost, finding ourselves, late-night bar conversations, your feedback, plus translations of French brochures. We have put this resource together to help you out when you are planning a trip to the resort. Updating this section is a never-ending task so if we have missed anything out, or you spot that we are out of date or just plain wrong, please do let us know!

Are there any creches / childminding / baby sitting services in Avoriaz?

There are a number of childcare options available in Avoriaz. Please be aware that booking in advance is always recommended and that nurseries may want to see medical records and vaccination certificates. Please see our Childcare Services section for further information and contact details.

Are there any free lifts in Avoriaz?

No, unfortunately not although children under the age of 5 ski for free. NB Even free access may require you to purchase an 'empty' lift pass for around €3 - refundable on return of the pass. Please enquire at the lift office for details. Persons claiming a free pass due to age may be required to provide proof of birthdate. You can read more about the ski lifts in our Lift Section.

Are there any left luggage facilities in Avoriaz?

Yes there is! If you're leaving resort late or arriving early, then you can leave your bags in the left luggage room at the welcome office. It's only available on Saturdays though, however, most of the accommodation providers in resort offer a left luggage service, you just need to ask them.

Are there any nightclubs or late night bars in Avoriaz?

Don't worry if the thought of going to bed early every night in order to be first up the mountain in the morning isn't your cup of tea! There is plenty in Avoriaz to keep the night-owls happy, take a look at our Bars & Clubs in Avoriaz Guide to find out where to party in resort.

Are there any non-smoking bars and restaurants?

Since January 2008 smoking has been banned in all bars, cafés and restaurants in France. Patrons are generally free to smoke on the terrace and during the winter months smokers are often catered for with outdoor heaters. Have a look at our Guide to Dining in Avoriaz for suggestions of restaurants and bistrots in Avoriaz.

Are there rules and restrictions on the lifts ?

The Avoriaz lift system operates during both summer and winter seasons and has different restrictions regarding access according to the time of year. Please see Avoriaz Ski Lift Guide for further details.

At what age should my child start skiing?

Most ski teachers wouldn’t recommend starting skiing before the age of three or four at the earliest. The right age will vary from child to child, and depends upon the child’s strength, co-ordination and attitude. For this age group skiing should remain a play activity, so don't expect a young child to ski all day - a couple of hours is ample. For more information on ski school and children please read our Guide to Children's Skiing in Avoriaz.

Can I cross-country ski in Avoriaz?

Cross-country skiing is a great alternative to regular alpine skiing if you fancy taking things a bit slower and enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings. It is still a great form of exercise though, as it is more energetic than it looks! You can find out all about the cross-country trails in Avoriaz in our Guide to Cross-Country Skiing.

Can I drink the water in Avoriaz?

Yes! Avoriaz is a proper town with decent water treatment. The water can sometimes taste a bit metallic due to the high mineral content and during the melting periods some people prefer to switch to bottled water just in case the treatment plants are over-capacity. Generally though the water in the Alps is, on the whole, wonderful mountain spring water and Avoriaz is no exception. It is perfectly safe to drink and tastes even better than the water at home!

Can I get sunburnt in winter?

Very easily! Always take precautions against the strength of the sun on a skiing holiday. At altitude and with the reflection off the snow, the sun’s rays can cause damage very quickly. Always, always wear sunglasses, even when the sun is not shining. Apply sunscreen, apply it thickly and keep applying it (you can still burn though cloud cover). Putting on factor 40 once in the morning will not protect you from burning. Reapply every hour.

Can I get to Avoriaz by train from the UK?

Yes, you can... but it is not likely to be the best or cheapest option, as in every case you will need to change at least once. Your best bet is Eurostar from London (Waterloo) to Paris (Gare du Nord) and then changing to an SNCF TGV train from the other side of Paris (Gare de Lyon) to Geneva or Annecy. Read more about travelling to the Alps in our Guide to How to Get to Avoriaz.

Can I go swimming in Avoriaz?

There is a large covered indoor swimming centre called the 'Aquariaz' with heated pools and lots of features for the whole family to enjoy. There is also an outdoor pool complex down in Morzine too.

Can I picnic at any of the mountain restaurants?

Picnicking is forbidden, or ‘interdit’, in most mountain restaurants. You may get away with eating your own sandwich if you buy some chips and a drink to go with it – but don’t be surprised if it is frowned upon. However, there are plenty of great places to eat al fresco in the mountains - as long as you don't mind nestling down into the snow or perching on a slab of rock! If the weather is too bad for eating outside then some mountain restaurants have a "salle hors sac" where you can tuck into your packed lunch indoors. For our recommendations, please see Mountain Restaurants in Avoriaz.

Can I take my baby to a ski resort?

Yes, you can take your baby to a ski resort but be aware that sudden changes in temperature and altitude are not recommended. For help on in-resort childcare, equipment rental and helpful tips go to our Tips for Families in Avoriaz & the Portes du Soleil.

Can you suggest some activities in Avoriaz for children?

Avoriaz is very much a family-friendly resort and welcomes children of all ages. From things that you can do as a family to activities that the children can go off and do with their new 'holiday friends' you will find plenty to keep everyone happy. Please see our Avoriaz Activities section for a few suggestions.

Can you suggest some hiking routes to try?

If you come to Avoriaz in the summer (and between you and me, you really should) chances are you'll want to get your walking boots on and go on a ramble or two. Avoriaz offers some beautiful walks for all standards, from gentle rambles to challenging hikes, you can enjoy the mountains just as much in summer as in winter. Have a look at our page on Hiking in Avoriaz for further information.

Can You Suggest Some Itineraries to Follow?

Indeed we can! Our hardworking snow reporters have complied some of their favourite routes for you to follow, there is something there for all abilities and they’ve even recommended top spots to stop for lunch! To read more please go to Skiing in Avoriaz and Portes du Soleil.

Do I need a car in resort?

No. Avoriaz is a traffic free resort. However, if you do decide to drive out you can leave your car in one of the designated parking areas at the entrance to the resort. Should you have mechanical problems whilst out on holiday, there is also a garage here to come to your rescue! (Tel: +33 (0)450 74 03 19)

Do I need a photograph for my lift pass?

Not any more. Due to the invention of magnetic 'hands-free' passes cutting out a passport sized photo to attach to your ski pass is no longer necessary. The only exceptions are the season passes and free passes - for these your photo will be taken digitally at the lift pass office, or you can bring along a photo for scanning. Don't forget you can now order your passes in advance and online, and have them sent to your home address or hotel / rental agency in the resort.

Do I Need a Work Permit in Avoriaz?

If you are from Europe, the chances are you will not require a work permit or "autorisation de travail" to work in France - Switzerland is a different matter. Please see our Working a Ski Season in Avoriaz to find out more about visas and passports.

Do I need to carry chains in the car (often a paying optional extra in car-hire)?

Yes! During snowy weather, resorts restrict access to vehicles with snow-tyres or chains, and sometimes traffic police will not allow any vehicle on to the resort access road without chains being fitted. Chains can be bought at any of the garages in the area or can be requested as part of a car hire package (if you are taking a car locally). We'd recommend that you buy them in advance at home though, to ensure the correct size & that they're actually in stock. The colour-coded 'quick-fit' variety are usually the best option and make sure you buy the right dimensions for you tyres - one size does NOT fit all.

Aside from snow chains, snow tyres make a huge difference. Here is out top tip, if you are hiring a car from Geneva airport and you are given the option to rent from the Swiss side or the French side opt for the Swiss side. The reason being that it is a legal requirement during the winter months in Switzerland to have winter tyres so your car will definitely have snow tyres, it is not the same situation in France. Driving with normal tyres in winter conditions can be quite hazardous and make life pretty difficult.

If you do need to put on snow chains whilst heading up the mountain there are designated areas so make sure you pull off the road in time. Do not try to keep driving. The mountain roads are narrow so if you get stuck everyone else behind will be too and not very happy about it! With most people travelling on Saturday or Sunday and people both leaving and arriving the volume of traffic is huge so make sure you respect the conditions and that you are prepared. Read more about snow chains and winter driving in our Guide to Driving in the Alps.

Do the Ski Instructors Speak English?

Almost certainly – ESF instructors are mainly French but teach lots of English clients year after year, and so have a good understanding of the language. You will also find that many of the private schools in resort employ English instructors, so enquire when booking if this is important to you. When booking into a group lesson most ski schools will try and keep people of the same nationality together, to avoid confusion. During quiet times of the year you may find yourself in a mixed group, but the instructor will still try to engage with individuals in their own language. You can find details of all the instructors on our Ski & Snowboard Schools listings page.

How Can I Get a Job in Avoriaz?

There are a number of different approaches to finding work in a ski resort. The simplest way is to apply to season workers websites via our Job Finder. Many of the larger companies such as Tour Operators will recruit their staff long before the season starts, so if you fancy yourself as a resort rep then you’d better get in early! Take a look at our section on Working a Ski Season to find out lots of other useful information.

How do I find the best flight deals?

The internet is swamped with websites offering scheduled flight comparison searches. Our Flight Finder offers searches specific to airports closest to the ski resorts so you can quickly and easily see prices and availability. By going to the airlines directly the process is often simpler, however you don't get any comparison. The alternative to scheduled flying is to obtain seats on charter flights by contacting the major tour operators from your country (UK tour operators here). Through them, you may be able to arrange and pay for your flight (and transfer to Avoriaz) in advance, although this is not always possible as flight seats are sometimes tied to beds and are therefore in short supply.

How do I get around Avoriaz?

On skis! The resort of Avoriaz 1800 has no traffic apart from sleighs and shuttles, thus preserving the environment and ensuring your well-being. This means that you are not able to drive to your accommodation or around town but all apartments are ski-in/ski-out and the resort amenities are right on your doorstep. However, there are still a variety of transport options at your disposal, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To find out more about public transport in Avoriaz read our Parking guide.

How do I get from the airport to Avoriaz?

Good transfer services exist at all the main airports for the Alps. A whole host of private companies offer minibus transfers (shared and private), or you can hire a car. Public transport using buses and trains are also available but can take a great deal longer to get to your destination. For more information on all these services, take a look at our Airport Transfers Guide.

How do I get to and from Avoriaz?

There are many options for getting to Avoriaz, from driving to flying to catching a train. To help you decide which is best for you please read our Guide to How to Get to Avoriaz.

How do I go about buying the right equipment?

If you decide that buying your own kit is the way forward then buying in Avoriaz is probably your best bet; you will find a wider choice of models and most shops give you the opportunity to test before you buy. There is more advice on what to buy in our Buying Skis & Snowboards in Avoriaz.

How do I know what lifts are open and what the weather is like before I decide to get out of bed?

Thanks to our handy real-time lift & piste information link you can access the conditions on the mountain without even having to poke your nose out of the front door! To find out what the weather in Avoriaz is doing, take a look at our LIVE Avoriaz webcam images, and to see which lifts are open please click on Avoriaz LIVE Lift & Piste Info.

How do you go about arranging a 'DIY' holiday?

A DIY holiday offers a fully flexible package to suit your needs, however a tour operator package is quick and easy, and often cheaper. You can read more about the pros and cons of each kind of holiday in our Where to Stay in Avoriaz Guide.

How long does it take to drive to Avoriaz from the UK?

From Calais the journey takes from 7 to 10 hours depending on your speed. There is motorway or dual carriageway from Calais all the way to the foot of the Alps. The better route is via Reims and not via Paris; and then on past Troyes, Dijon and passing close to Geneva. Try using ViaMichelin to plan your route.

Remember that it is a legal requirement in France to carry a warning triangle and spare bulbs, and that the motorway speed limit depends on the weather. On autoroutes the speed limit is 130km/hr (81mph) except during rain when it reduces to 110km/hr (68mph). Speeding fines are expensive and must be paid immediately to the traffic police.

The roads around Lyon, Albertville and Moûtiers are often slow moving or at a standstill during the busy French holiday weekends.

How should I pack my skis and/or snowboard?

If you like your skis and are travelling by air, it is imperative that you pack them in a ski or board bag for protection. Most airlines will still take your skis if they are not in a ski bag; just don’t be surprised at the condition they arrive in at the other end of your flight. A ski or snowboard bag can also be packed with soft items (ski trousers, jumpers, etc) around your skis or board to give them added protection. Just be careful if the equipment is covered in storage wax. If driving to resort, the most convenient alternative is a roof "coffin" style box that will carry several pairs of skis/boards, boots and poles. A roof rack is also a handy alternative and can be rented from many ski shops. If using a roof rack, try to cover the bindings to prevent them getting coated in grit and salt from the road. Roof boxes and roof racks should be lockable and secure from thieves.

I don't ski or board - is there anything for me to do?

Avoriaz has plenty to offer if skiing and snowboarding aren't your cup of tea. From a range of alternative mountain pursuits to more sedate cultural options you can make it as action-packed or as relaxed as you like! You will find a few suggestions in our Avoriaz Activities section.

I've never been to Avoriaz, what's it like?

Well, we rather like it! It is a great resort all year round, the scenery is magnificent and there is plenty to see and do. If you want to get a taste of what Avoriaz has to offer please read our About Avoriaz section where you will learn about the town, ski area, history of the resort and where to go for dining and nightlife.

Is there a church in Avoriaz?

Although Avoriaz cannot boast its own parish church, it does have two places of worship that open periodically:

La Chapelle du Plateau (also known as Notre Dame des Prisonniers after the World War II former prisoners of war that built it): this is used for Sunday services throughout the summer

La Chapelle d’Avoriaz-Station: this is actually a small sacristy with a bell-tower and is part of the Tourist Office. It opens to celebrate the masses of Christmas and Easter.

For details of masses please contact the Avoriaz Tourist Office for times and dates. Morzine and Avoriaz fall under the parish of Saint Guérin en Vallée d’Aulps, within which are 12 churches;

La Forclaz – église de Saint Pierre

La Vernaz - église de la Visitation de Marie

La Baume - église de l’Immaculée Conception

Biot - église Saint Nicolas

Seytroux - église Saint Bernard de Menthon

Plan d’Avoz (Saint Jean d’Aulps) - église Saint Jean-Baptiste

La Moussière (Saint Jean d’Aulps) - église Saint Jean Baptiste

Montriond - église de la Visitation

Essert-Romand - église Saint Louis de Gonzague

La Côte d’Arbroz - église de l’Assomption

Morzine - église Sainte Marie-Madeleine

Les Gets - église de la Nativité de Marie

Morzine’s Church of St Marie-Madeleine was completed in 1805 and is still in regular use today. The interior of the church was restored in 1968-1970 and again in 2005; the bell tower now being the only remaining part of the original building. The churches of Montriond, Seytroux and Morzine show influences of the Baroque period, while the churches of Essert-Romand, Biot and La Baume fall under the neo-classical style. The church of Forclaz, originally built in the neo-classical tradition, was transformed by contemporary architect Maurice Novarina and now more resembles the churches of the 20th Century. In the other churches a variety of architectural styles and influences can be detected; from Roman to Gothic architecture with modern additions and renovations carried out by intervening generations. To view images of these churches and find out more about their architecture and history please visit the website of the Eglise Catholique en Vallée d’Aulps. You can also find details of masses and special services.

Is there a gym in Avoriaz?

Just in case all that skiing, mountaineering, climbing and mountain biking isn't enough for you - yes, there is a gym in Avoriaz! Take a look at our Fitness & Sports Centre page for more information.

Is there a launderette in Avoriaz?

Yes there is, an automatic one in the Falaise area at the entrance of the resort. NB The French for launderette is 'Lavarie'.

Is There a Snowpark in Avoriaz?

Avoriaz is a snowboarders paradise! There are a number of snowparks, freestyle zones, half-pipes and boardercrosses in the Portes du Soleil region. To read more about where they are and what they’re like please read Snowparks in Avoriaz.

Is there an indoor climbing wall in Avoriaz?

The nearest indoor climbing wall is actually in Morzine, at the Palais des Sports. However, the Children's Village in Avoriaz runs regular age-appropriate climbing courses throughout the summer and there is plenty of outdoor rock climbing and Via Ferrata in the area as well. Have a look at our Indoor Sports page for more information.

Saturday or Sunday travel?

If you are coming out at the weekend which day should you travel? Traditionally Saturday-Saturday travel to France has been the main option. However, Sunday-Sunday is becoming ever more viable an alternative to the near total saturation of Saturdays. Typically Sunday travel has been the preserve of smaller, more exclusive operators but now more companies have added these products into their brochures via their committed bedstocks. Choice of day will of course be determined firstly by your commitments back home and then availability.

However, thinking that with Sundays you won't have a 'day at home to recover' should not be a reason not to seek out this alternative. The significant advantages being:

An extra day to prepare/shop before you come out

Ease of travel - less congestion with less chance of delays

Ease of access to equipment and lift-passes after the rush

Empty pistes on the final day (Saturday when everyone else is travelling)

A much more tranquil return home meaning less time needed to recover from the journey

Potentially lower prices as demand is lower

These factors should definitely feature in your considerations.

Should I get ski & travel insurance?

Insurance is a must when going up the mountain. Should you have an accident, rescue fees (especially if by helicopter) are very expensive and medical costs can end up costing an arm and a leg (sorry!). Even if you have an EHIC Card you should still make sure you are properly insured by taking out an appropriate winter sports policy. One thing to be aware of is when buying your lift pass you are likely to be asked if you need insurance, this is a separate policy to your travel insurance and is well worth taking out. The Carre neige insurance policy costs only a couple of euros per day and will assist if you ever have an accident on the piste. If you have taken out carre neige the recovery team will just want to see your policy card given when purchased and you will be whisked down the mountain to the medical centre without paying a penny. If you have not taken out the carre neige the recovery team will need to be paid for taking you off the mountain. You can recover this from your insurer but it is much easier to take out the policy, especially if you do not have helicopter recovery fees in your bank account! You can see more advice by reading our articles on Travel Insurance and Ski Insurance.

Should I have ski or snowboard lessons?

Absolutely! Anyone can benefit from having lessons and it is the best way to improve and get more out of your time on the mountain. It is essential for beginners to have correct instruction for the first week or two and group lessons are a great way to learn. There's a load more information in our Avoriaz Ski Lessons Guide.

Should I hire or buy my skis/snowboard?

For a beginner it is probably best to hire equipment; if you buy equipment straightaway you quickly outgrow it as your skiing level improves. The cost of hiring skis and boots for 6 days (adults) varies from around €90 - 110 for beginners, to around €110 - 150 for experts/top of the range equipment. Wait until you have done a few weeks’ skiing or boarding and make sure that this is a sport you will practice regularly, and then consider buying - for more advice see our pages on Buying the Right Skis & Snowboards. The cost of purchase will pay for itself over 4 or 5 weeks, so if you are doing a season or visit the mountains a few times a year then it is a good investment to have your own kit that you know you are comfortable with. There are a wide range of Ski Rental and Sports Shops in Avoriaz where you can hire and buy the latest kit.

What are the 10 rules of ski safety?

The 10 FIS rules for the conduct of skiers and snowboarders

1. Respect for Others: People using the pistes must behave in such a way that they do not put other people in danger or harm them, either by their behaviour or with their equipment.

2. Speed & Behaviour: People using the pistes must adapt their speed and behaviour to suit their personal abilities as well as the general ground and weather conditions, the state of the snow and the density of the traffic.

3. Choice of Direction by the Person Uphill: A skier who is uphill is in a position which enables him to choose a course; he must therefore make this choice so as to preserve the safety of anyone downhill.

4. Overtaking: Overtaking can be done from uphill or downhill, on the right or on the left, but the person overtaking must always allow a margin for the movements of the person he is overtaking.

5. Where Pistes Cross & When Starting Off: After stopping, or where pistes cross, all users must, by looking uphill and downhill, make sure that they can start off without endangering themselves and others.

6. Standing: All users must avoid standing in passages which are narrow or where there is no visibility; in the event of a fall, they must get off the piste as quickly as possible.

7. Going Up & Down on Foot: People who are obliged to go up or down a piste on foot must use the edge of the piste, taking care that neither they nor their equipment is a danger to others.

8. Respect for Information, Markings & Signs: Users must take notice of information about weather conditions and about the state of the pistes and snow. They must respect markings and signs.

9. Assistance: Anyone witnessing or involved in an accident must give assistance, particularly by raising the alarm. If need be, and at the request of the first-aid people, they must put themselves at their disposal.

10. Identification: Anyone witnessing or involved in an accident must make themselves known to the emergency service and/or third parties. Swapping details with eachother must take place.

What are the commonest injuries and how can I avoid them?

The type of injuries you may sustain can depend on what your chosen mountain discipline is. Skiers knee ligaments (anterior cruciate ligament in particular) take the most injuries. Make sure your ski bindings are adjusted correctly for your weight and level of skiing. Over 80% of accidents to skiers which result in sprained knee ligaments resulted from skis not coming off during a fall.

Snowboarders tend to suffer more upper body injuries such as broken collarbones, dislocated shoulders and head and wrist injuries - so a helmet and wrist protectors are a must.

Should you be unlucky enough to get injured whilst on holiday and find yourself hobbling around on crutches – do not despair! Make the most of your situation and check out this fun website: Cool Crutches! Injury rates for skiing are much lower than most people imagine, at between 0.2 and 0.4%. The French Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests the following eight points to reduce your risk:

Improve your physical fitness before your holiday

Ensure bindings are correctly set for your ability, weight and height

Choose the correct equipment for your level

Wear a helmet (especially in a snowpark)

Warm up before setting out

Make sure you take enough food and liquids

Take a rest or cut short your day when you start to feel tired

To this we would add:

Follow the piste safety code (see FAQs Skiing & Snowboarding)

Hire equipment from a specialist sports shop rather than borrowing from friends - there are plenty of Ski Hire Shops in Avoriaz that can give you expert advice on what you need

Stay within your own limits and don’t try to keep up with more experienced friends - even if it's not your first time, you will benefit greatly from ski or snowboard lessons with a qualified instructor

Bring non-slip boots for walking around the resort as pavements can be icy

For more information on skiing and snowboarding injuries, see this Ski Injury website.

What Are the Different Ski Areas in Portes du Soleil Like?

The Portes du Soleil is split up into 12 ski areas, Avoriaz and Morzine being the two main ones.Go to Ski Areas in Avoriaz to read more about what you will find there.

What are the local food specialities to try?

Although not as renowned as the haute cuisine of Paris or the fine bistros of Lyon, the Alps do have a number of tasty treats in store for those who like to sample some regional specialities and Avoriaz has a good selection of restaurants. Meat and cheese feature heavily in Alpine cooking – so it’s just as well there are plenty of mountains where you can work off the extra pounds! To learn more about typical dishes, cheeses and what wines to try please read our article on Where to Eat . You can find details of all Avoriaz eateries on our Avoriaz Restaurants or Avoriaz Gourmet Restaurants listing pages.

What are the main events in Avoriaz throughout the year?

Avoriaz has many events going on all year round. To get an overview of what happens when please see our Avoriaz Events Guide. To keep an eye on a particular date you can check out our What's On in Avoriaz Calendar, which is regularly updated with all the latest events.

What dates do the lifts open and close?

The Avoriaz ski area normally opens in early December and runs through into late April or early May, although exact dates are dependent on snow conditions. You can get a good idea of what to expect by having a look back over our Avoriaz Snow Reports from previous winters. Exact dates for this year's ski season can be found under Avoriaz Ski Lift Opening Dates. During the summer, the lifts are open from mid-June, providing access to hiking, biking, climbing, paragliding and a whole load more summer activities. This year's dates can be found under Avoriaz Summer Lift Opening Dates.

What different types of snowboards are there?

If you want to know the difference between a freestyle and a freeride board, have a look at our article on All You Ever Needed to Know About Snowboards. It includes a review of this season’s latest kit and explains all the jargon that previously went right over our heads!

What do I need to know about maintaining my skis/snowboard?

You need to know that your skis & snowboards will benefit from regular waxing and servicing, whether you do it yourself or take it to a shop is up to you. You can read all about how to care for your skis and boards in our Guide to Ski & Snowboard Maintenance.

What do the different abbreviations for lift types mean on the piste map?

Ski lifts are marked on the Avoriaz piste map using straight black lines. There are 4 different types (button tow/drag, chair, telecabine, telepherique) and they have the corresponding abbreviations:

What do the different colours of piste refer to on the maps?

The colours represent the scale of difficulty of the pistes in Avoriaz:

Green: Very easy, corresponds to a beginner level and nursery slopes.

Blue: Easy, although the gradient has increased there may be a few bumps and dips to test your balance. Great fun once you are a little more confident.

Red: Steeper slopes, suitable for intermediate or above, can pose a challenge in places.

Black: Technically difficult and steep. Advanced levels only.

The scale applies to whichever activity you are doing in Avoriaz - skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, or mountain biking. Each piste has the colour marked at the beginning and the poles along the sides of the piste will correspond. Take a look at our Guide to the Avoriaz Ski Area to find out more.

What else should I know about driving in France?

When driving in France, it is important that you are aware of any road laws and restrictions that may differ from home. For starters, UK licence holders must be 18 years or older in order to drive a temporarily imported car on French roads. For everything you need to know about driving in France, take a look at our page on Driving to Resort

What exercises should I do before my holiday?

Any exercise you can do before your holiday which increases your level of fitness, develops the muscles in the leg, and improves your balance, will be beneficial. Not only will you tire less easily, and slide better, but you will also be helping to protect your body from injury. The ligaments in the knee are particularly vulnerable to injury from skiing - make sure you build up the leg muscles to help protect your knees. You can read a bit more about exercise training in this article on Pre-Season Ski Fitness, written by Mike Halsall of Magic Hands Physio.

What facilities are there for disabled skiers in Avoriaz?

Most ski resorts now offer lessons by specially qualified ski instructors and the opportunity to hire out adapted equipment that allows people with disabilities to enjoy the mountains safely. To read more about what Avoriaz has to offer, please read our page on Handiski & Disabled Skiing in Avoriaz.

What hours are the shops open?

The French still maintain fairly traditional opening hours, with only the bigger shops or out-of-town shopping centres staying open all day long. Generally speaking supermarkets will open between 8am and 7pm. Other shops tend to open at 10am, closing at 12.30pm for a lunch break until around 3pm. They then reopen until 7pm or 8pm. Most shops in Avoriaz remain open 7 days a week during the winter and summer seasons, including Christmas, New Year and other bank holidays. During peak season some shops may remain open throughout the day without stopping for lunch but don't rely on it. During the interseason periods of spring and autumn many shops in Avoriaz close altogether. Read Shopping in Avoriaz to find out more about the type of shops you'll find in resort.

What is Carre Neige insurance?

Carré Neige is the basic insurance policy that covers you whilst on the mountain and is recognised across all French ski resorts. You can purchase it for a few euros a day when you buy your Avoriaz ski pass or take out cover for the whole season. It is reasonably inexpensive and provides good basic cover. Please read our article on Winter Ski Insurance to find out more and see how it compares to other policies.

What is paragliding and can I do it in Avoriaz?

Paragliding, or 'parapente' as it is called in French, is the popular sport of taking off from a high point and gently floating down to earth attached to a parachute. Safely strapped into a tandem harness, your instructor will show you how to control your 'wings' while you admire the mountains from a birds-eye perspective! To find out where and how you can do this activity please go to Paragliding in Avoriaz.

What is the difference between telemark, cross-country, alpine touring and regular alpine skis?

The range of skis on the market is vast and many of them are used for different variations of the sport; regular Alpine skiing is the most common and is where most people start out. To read more about the differences between the skis and what they are used for please read our article on All You Ever Needed to Know About Skis.

What is there to do in summer in Avoriaz?

Avoriaz is not just a winter resort. Every summer the lifts crank back into action and are used by hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, paragliders and those who just like to enjoy the view! There is plenty to do down at resort level with golf, swimming, archery and white water sports all attracting plenty of visitors. Our guide to Summer Activities in Avoriaz will tell you all you need to know about what the resort has to offer.

What lift passes are available in summer?

Avoriaz in summer has just as much to do as in winter - if not more! There are a number of lift passes available, depending on how you want to explore the mountains. Please see Avoriaz Summer Lift Passes for more information.

What should I do if my skis/snowboard get stolen?

It’s a sad fact that in this day and age, we can no longer leave our skis outside as we enjoy a warming hot chocolate, après ski, or a leisurely lunch at the side of the piste. “Prevention is always better than cure", so be very careful about how and where you leave your skis unattended. Should the worst happen and you can’t find your kit where you left it, follow these points:

Before you panic, double-check the area where you left them, just in case. It is possible they have fallen over and/or have been put back in a different location.

Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. Don’t be fobbed off by the lack of interest by the local police force. They see this type of incident all the time, and are therefore not always the most helpful. Be persistent, this is necessary and required by all insurance companies.

If applicable, tell your resort representative. If they were rental skis, you'll probably have to deal with the shop, and they may be able to provide some assistance. When hiring the skis, some rental shops will offer additional insurance to protect you against theft. If you choose not to take this option, or the rental shop doesn’t provide this service, you will probably have to pay for the skis (to the replacement cost value) and then claim on your insurance.

Theft tends to happen when you least expect it. Speaking from personal experience, even placing your skis directly behind you as you sit in a café or bar can be a mistake… BE AWARE!! Here are some tips to minimize the risk of having your skis/snowboard stolen:

Never leave your skis unattended for a long period of time outside a bar or restaurant. Some bars may offer a “ski monitoring” service.

Avoid leaving skis on your balcony, even if your apartment is located on the higher floors of the building (thieves have been known to scale up to four floors for the latest skis and snowboards!)

Always keep your skis in your sight line.

Swap a ski with a friend when going into a mountain restaurant or bar; but don’t put the unmatched pairs next to each other!!

Where you have rental skis, ask the rental shop to write your name on the skis as many people will have the same or similar pairs, and may take yours by accident.

Use ski lockers where provided.

Invest in a ski/snowboard lock. Although it won’t prevent the determined thief, it may deter them.

Check your insurance policy to see what’s covered should your own skis, or rental skis be stolen.

What sort of bike do I need in Avoriaz?

Avoriaz has many different trails which are suited to different types of mountain bikes, from cross-country to downhill. You might choose to bring your own bike with you, or hire one in resort and try something new. Take a look at our Guide to Mountain Biking in Avoriaz to help you decide.

What sort of jobs are available?

Pretty much anything you can think of relating to hospitality and tourism! Tour operators in Avoriaz are a good place to start as the larger ones will need a range of winter staff from chalet caterers, to cleaners, to accountants, to bar managers. To get an idea of what is on offer, check out our Guide to Season Work Jobs in Avoriaz. NB Most tour operators won’t employ anyone under 21, and none employ those under 18.

What time do the Avoriaz lifts open and close?

In winter the ski lifts operate from between 8am and 9am and close about 4pm due to daylight hours. The exact times vary according to time of year and weather conditions, but daily updates can be found at the lift stations. Note that each lift may have a different closing time! Make sure you know what time the last lift stops so that you do not end up stranded on the mountain at the end of the day. In summer the lifts generally open around 9am and close around 6pm, again they will vary according to weather and hours of sunlight. You might also find that some lifts close for lunch! You can check which lifts are open right now with our Live Lift Status in Avoriaz.

What's Avoriaz like for skiers/snowboarders?

There really is something for everyone – you can find out all about ski areas, snow parks, cross-country skiing, handiski and more in our Skiing and Snowboarding in Avoriaz section. You will also find information on avalanches and mountain safety, as well as links to ski schools and ski rental shops.

When are the French school holidays this year?

French and British school holidays often coincide, making ski resorts extremely busy for certain weeks of the year. If there is a period when you can take a holiday and avoid the school break you should find lift queues, restaurants and other attractions much more tranquil. Plan ahead by checking out French school holiday dates for the next few years.

When Do the Mountain Huts Open and Close for the Season?

There are many mountain huts in and around the Avoriaz,the Portes du Soleil region that offer a resting place and sustenance for the weary traveller. A large proportion of them are closed in the winter although some may still offer shelter for back country tourers and climbers. The seasonal opening and closing dates is governed to a certain extent, by the severity of the winter and how quickly the snow disappears. You can find listings for individual huts on our Mountain Huts listings page.

When is it best to come mountain biking in Avoriaz?

The main summer season in Avoriaz is during July and August, however the trails can be busy and bikers may find that some of them are closed to make way for hikers. Weather permitting, June, September and up to the end of October are good months to mountain bike as trails are quiet and the temperatures are cooler. If you want to hammer the downhill then you'll need to come when the summer lifts are open, if you're more of a cross-country fan then you can benefit from coming out of season when flights are cheaper. You can find out more by reading our Guide to Mountain Biking in Avoriaz.

When is the best time of year to come to Avoriaz?

This is very much a matter of personal preference. Snow-wise, December can be fantastic or a flop. If you can book last-minute then come when, and if, the snow falls (keep checking our Avoriaz Weather Forecast and sign up for our free Dump Alert for the latest news of snow falls). Empty pistes are guaranteed and bargains can be snapped up on our Avoriaz Special Offers page.

Christmas and New Year are very popular so the resort and pistes will be busy and prices much higher. However, Christmas in the snow is magical, especially for families.

January is much underrated. Many people are back at work or school, so the pistes are virtually empty with no lift queues. The weather can be very cold but this makes for excellent snow conditions and we often enjoy blue skies and sunshine in January.

February is when the French school holidays start, you can check the dates in our Guide to Family Holidays in Avoriaz. If you have children then you'll also be restricted to the school holiday dates of your own country. Avoriaz is always extremely busy in February and Children's Ski School places are often booked up months in advance. Avoid February if you don’t like being out-skied by 7 year olds!

March is when the sun starts to shine for longer and longer each day and temperatures are usually kinder to lunching out-of-doors. The snow quality may start to decline - hard in the morning and slushy in the afternoons. This is a popular month with the British and other nationalities, so it can still be quite busy, but the February madness will have eased off.

April is often the snowiest month of the season as spring showers bring fresh snow to the mountains. In fine weather it is perfect for lazy long lunches in the sun, and the pistes are once again quiet. It is also a good month for picking up some end-of-season deals and special offers.

The resort will go quiet during May and June, but spring in the Alps is beautiful and if you don't mind not being able to take the lifts it can be the nicest time for hiking. The weather can be changeable, as it can anywhere, but it is often more comfortable for outdoor sports than the heat of summer.

July and August are the busiest summer months and there are loads of outdoor activities, as well as plenty of hiking trails to explore. The climate during the daytime will be much as for the rest of France but the evenings will be cooler - so you can sleep well after the day's exploits.

From September onwards things cool down again, and life is much calmer. You can enjoy excellent weather at this time of year and the temperature is much better suited to outdoor activities, although the rain may come at this time (as elsewhere).

October and November are when many places are closed to take a break or prepare for the following winter season. You can expect the resort to be very quiet during these months, which may suit some people but bear in mind that mountain access will only be on foot as the lifts will be closed and the weather will be turning colder and wetter.

Take a look at our Avoriaz Snow Reports from previous winters to see what to expect from the weather and snow conditions throughout the season.

Where can I book flights from the UK?

The easiest way to find a flight to the Alps is to use our Flight Finder. With our search engine, you can search for flights to all the airports closest to your ski resort. You'll find a choice of airlines, and of course, the best prices.

Where can I change/draw out money?

There is a Banque Populaire and a Crédit Agricole in Avoriaz centre where one can change money during banking hours. Banque Populaire is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am - 12.30pm & 2.30pm - 5.30pm and Crédit Agricole is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8.30am - 12 noon & 1.45pm - 6pm (A.M. only on Saturday). The Post Office in the Galerie des Hauts Forts (just past Hotel Les Dromonts) will also do money exchange from 9.15am - 1.15pm, Monday to Friday. However, the easiest way to obtain Euros is to use a credit or debit card in one of the cashpoint machines in the centre of town. Both banks mentioned before have cash points and there is an additional ATM at the Galerie des Hauts Forts. All cash points accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus etc. Please note that most banks in France close on Sundays, Mondays and all public holidays. They also take the traditional lunch break of 12am to 2pm, so if you need to speak to a cashier make sure you have checked their opening times first.

Where can I fly a drone in Avoriaz?

Restrictions apply to flying leisure or professional drones in Avoriaz, at certain times of the year. Find where and when you can and can't fly drones in Avoriaz.

Location: France

Where can I get a copy of the Avoriaz piste maps?

Right here! You will find all Avoriaz and the Portes du Soleil maps, including piste maps at Avoriaz Maps. You can also pick up paper copies in resort at the Tourist Office, lift stations and most hotel receptions.

Where Can I Get More Information On the Climbing/Mountaineering/Skiing/Touring Routes?

It is important to arm yourself with as much information as possible on the terrain, the weather and the conditions before heading out into the mountains. You can get much of this information from the Tourist Office, where daily weather reports are posted and staff can advise on popular routes. You can also get more detailed information from the Bureau des Guides, who will undoubtedly have been out and about within the past few days and should be able to give you advance warning of any potential dangers such as rock falls or seracs.

Where can I go for apres ski in Avoriaz?

Avoriaz wouldn't be the resort that it is without a good dose of après-ski to end the day on! There is no shortage of places to go for a few drinks and some live music after a day on the mountain, have a look at our Bars, Clubs & Apres Ski guide for our pick of the best. You can keep up to date with all the goings-on in Avoriaz by following the exploits of our intrepid Avoriaz Apres Ski Reporter; weekly reports telling you all about the best parties, live music and après fun!

Where can I go mountain biking in Avoriaz?

Mountain biking (also known as MTB or VTT) is very popular in the Alps and the amount of facilities, marked trails and competitions are increasing year on year. To find out about the best places to go in Avoriaz and other top mountain biking tips please take a look at our article on Avoriaz Mountain Biking.

Where can I hire a bike in Avoriaz (inc MTB/Road Bike/Happy Shopper/etc)?

Most sports shops in Avoriaz restock their shelves in the summer and will have all the latest kit for biking, hiking, climbing and the like. Probably the best option for bike hire and/or instruction is Rustine; as well as having a range of bikes for hire they can also give park lessons or take you on a guided ride, or you can join their week-long 'bike camp'. Go to our Sports Shop or Cycle Hire page for details of all Avoriaz rental shops.

Where can I hire a bike in Avoriaz (inc MTB/Road Bike/Happy Shopper/etc)?

Most sports shops in Avoriaz restock their shelves in the summer, replacing skis and snowboards with all the latest kit for mountain biking, hiking, climbing and the like. Please go to Bike Hire in Avoriaz to find out where you can rent some wheels.

Where can I hire skis/snowboards/avalanche transceivers/other equipment?

There are many ski rental shops in Avoriaz, many of which offer an online booking service. As well as saving you time once you arrive in Avoriaz, online booking is often rewarded with a nice discount on the cost of your kit! Even if you have booked your gear online, you can still try it on in the shop and change it for another size/model if it does not feel right. Most ski & snowboard hire shops in Avoriaz will also have transceivers and avalanche safety kit to rent - make sure you know how to use it and that you test it before you take it into the mountains!

Where can I park in resort and how much does it cost?

Being a traffic-free resort Avoriaz has an abundance of car parks where you can leave the car for the duration of your stay. For more information please see our Parking guide

Where can I pick up my emails or use WiFi in Avoriaz?

WiFi is pretty much everywhere these days and Avoriaz is no exception. Most bars, cafés, restaurants, etc are happy for you to log on as long as you buy something - even if it's just a coffee. Find out where you can grab a drink and upload your holidays selfies at Bars in Avoriaz.

Where do I go in Avoriaz for... beginners/bad weather/bumps/off-piste/etc?

It’s all very well having a Avoriaz piste map but without a bit of local knowledge you’ll never find the hidden gems that we all head straight for! If you’re looking for a quiet slope to practise your parallel turns, somewhere to escape from the bad weather, a great off-piste powder stash, or even just a nice spot for lunch be sure to check out our guide to Avoriaz Skiing.

Where is the nearest hospital to Avoriaz?

The nearest hospitals to Morzine & Avoriaz are Cluses (12km) and Thonon (35km). Details can be found on the Medical Services listings page. Emergency Numbers:

If you need urgent medical attention you can call 15 free of charge from any landline or payphone, this will put you through to Samu, the French ambulance service. This number is usually only used for serious medical emergencies. You can find more information on the Samu (English Version) Website.

If the situation requires first aid, rather than paramedic treatment you can call the Pompiers (fire service) free of charge on 18. They are qualified and equipped to deal with most minor injuries.

If you are calling from a mobile phone you should dial the Single European Emergency Call Number 112. This will put you in touch with the emergency services switchboard from anywhere in the European Union.

Where is the nearest station?

Cluses train station is approximately 40 kms from Avoriaz where you can then take a taxi or bus to resort.

Which are the nearest airports?

If you aren't arriving by private plane or helicopter the four main airports for the French Alps are: Geneva (Switzerland), Chambery, Lyon St-Exupery Airport, and Grenoble. You can find out more about the closest airport and the onward travel in our How to Get Here Guide.

Which mountain restaurants should I try?

Lunch is a well-earned meal when you’re up the mountain all day! There are a range of restaurants to try from self-service snack bars to wooden chalets with roaring fires and waiter service. See Mountain Restaurants in Avoriaz for our favourites.

Which ski school should I use?

There is no ‘right’ answer to this as Avoriaz has a number of different ski schools, all offering different services. ESF is the Ecole du Ski Français, a national ski and snowboard school that has a base in every resort. Their instructors are mostly French, but speak a wide range of languages including English, Russian, Italian and Swedish. They teach children and adults and offer group or one-on-one lessons. There are also a number of private ski and snowboard schools in Avoriaz, some of which are British-run, offering everything from complete beginner lessons to advanced master classes. These are more likely to be able to offer you individually tailored lessons, but may be more expensive. Visit Avoriaz Ski & Snowboard Schools to find out more.

Which Avoriaz lift pass should I buy?

Avoriaz caters for all sorts of visitors - from families with children, to groups of skiers and snowboarders, to hardcore alpinists - and the choice of lift passes reflects that. To weigh up your choices and see which lift pass best suits your needs please go to Avoriaz Ski Lift Pass Options and Avoriaz Summer Lift Pass Options for more information.

Which Avoriaz restaurants are child-friendly?

There aren’t many restaurants in France where children are not welcome; it is a much more common sight to see children dining out with their parents than in the UK. Most restaurants in Avoriaz offer a children’s menu; they tend to be in the region of 10€ and usually consist of omelette/ham/burger/chicken with chips/salad or a pasta option such as spaghetti bolognaise. Please read our Guide to Dining Out in Avoriaz for our top recommendations of where to eat with children in Avoriaz.

Who can I go rafting and canyoning with in Avoriaz?

There are a number of companies in the area who can take you on a white water adventure. The rivers run fastest at the start of summer when they are fed by all the melting snow and ice from the mountains, while the smaller streams and waterfalls are great fun for canyoning. You can find details of all companies that offer these trips under Watersports in Avoriaz.

Will I suffer from altitude sickness?

At 1,800m, Avoriaz is a high altitude resort. Although you may not have felt any difference when travelling to resort, you may become aware of feeling unwell once you begin to move around. It may be especially noticeable once you travel on the ski lifts, which climb up to 2,460m (altitude sickness most commonly occurs above 2,400m). Some of the lifts up to the higher peaks do ascend rapidly, which means that you might feel giddy when you get to the top and start to move around. Just take a moment to get your breath and steady yourself.

Being more out of breath than usual and finding exercise slightly more tiring are not uncommon when unaccustomed to being at altitude. Common symptoms include lack of appetite, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, light-headedness, insomnia, pins and needles, shortness of breath, rapid pulse, drowsiness/malaise, slight swelling of extremities. Many people will not be affected by any of these symptoms; altitude sickness affects everyone differently and some people not at all. However, if you are embarking on a high mountain expedition there are some symptoms that may indicate a more serious problem, for which you should seek immediate medical attention. These include a persistent dry cough, fever, shortness of breath that persists when resting, headache that does not respond to analgesics, unsteady gait, vomiting, loss of consciousness. These symptoms can be indicative of either fluid in the lungs or swelling of the brain, however as they affect very few people (fluid=2%, swelling=1%) they are worth knowing about but not worrying over.

Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness:

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration – the air at altitude is thinner and your lungs lose a higher rate of water vapour the higher up you are. The additional exertion of skiing/boarding (not to mention clumping round in your boots) may be more than you are used to and could add to your potential for dehydration. If you reward yourself with a lunchtime pint or vin chaud, make sure you take plenty of water on board as well.

Be careful of the strength of the sun – it is much stronger than you realise and the extra body heat you work up combined with the glare of the sun off the snow could add to a headache or feeling of dizziness.

Take it easy – we know you can’t wait for that first run of the holiday, but don’t dash out of the lift and go steaming down the mountain straight away! Take a few deep breaths, cruise the first few runs and let your body adjust.

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